Kauai Kayak Adventures

Did you ever dream of paddling up a tranquil jungle stream to fern fringed pools and misty waterfalls? This is just one of many romantic island fantasies that can become a reality on Kauai, Hawaii. Exploring Kauai’s tropical rivers and streams does not require kayaking expertise. After some initial instructions and precautions, even the most novice paddlers quickly master the nuances of kayak maneuvering.

Paddle Kauai’s rivers and
streams to ruins of ancient
Polynesian villages…

Kauai’s most popular kayaking destination is the Wailua River, on Kauai’s eastern shore, pictured at right. Though the lower Wailua River is the most traveled on Kauai, quiet solitude can be found only slightly further upstream in the river’s twisty bends and lesser-traveled forks. Points of interest include the Fern Grotto, remains of ancient Hawaiian village heiaus–sacred grounds and birthing stones, a replica of an old Hawaiian village–site for the movie Outbreak,a rope swing for the more daring, and after a short hike inland, the waterfall pictured at left. This is an adventure you will long remember with Kauai’s tropical flowers and lush vegetation, including guavas and mangos–when in season, and the song of exotic birds drifting through the trees.

Closer to Poipu Beach, the less traveled Huleia River offers leisurely paddling past Kauai’s Menehune Fish Pond and excellent birding through the Huleia National Wildlife Refuge. The Kalihiwai and Hanalei rivers on Kauai’s northern shore also offer easy paddling and beautiful vistas. Kayaking on all of these rivers is possible since the kayaks are lightweight and may be easily transported on top of your rental car.

Suite Paradise Guest Services can make the arrangements for self-guided, self-paced or expert guided kayak and bike adventures. Click here for more info.